Report: Patriots add RB depth by signing Sankey to practice squad

Report: Patriots add RB depth by signing Sankey to practice squad

FOXBORO -- The Patriots have added some depth to their running-back position by way of the practice squad.

According to ESPN, the team has signed former Titans running back Bishop Sankey to one of their 10 open practice-squad spots. Sankey, a second-round pick in 2014 out of the University of Washington, was released by Tennessee as it trimmed its roster to 53 players this week.

Sankey, who will turn 24 later this month, measures in at 5-foot-10, 209 pounds. In 29 games over two seasons, he has carried 199 times for 762 yards (a 3.8 yards-per-carry average) and three touchdowns. He has also caught 32 passes on 45 targets for 272 yards (8.5 yards-per-catch) and one touchdown. In New England's offense, given his size and skill set, he figures to be insurance at the team's "sub back" spot behind James White and DJ Foster -- both of whom are on the 53-man roster.

The Patriots have lead "big back" LeGarrette Blount on the roster as well as special-teamer Brandon Bolden. They could add yet another body to their practice squad before the end of the day on Sunday if they feel the need to establish more depth at the position.

Dion Lewis, who when healthy could factor in as the team's top option as its pass-catching back, will be on the reserve/physically unable to perform list for at least the first six weeks of the regular season.

The Pats signed McClellin to a three-year deal prior to the 2016 season, but that was the only season in which he played for the team. McClellin missed all of last season due to injury. Prior to coming to New England, McClellin played four seasons with the Bears, who chose him 19th overall in 2012.

McClellin's biggest contribution with the Pats came when he blocked a Justin Tucker kick in Week 14 of the 2016 season against the Ravens.